Along The Lines
Connecticut Department of Transportation
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Welcome to Along The Lines - a conversation hosted by CTDOT Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Rich Andreski as he engages the community and fellow transportation advocates to discuss how public transportation impacts your daily life in Connecticut. Join in as Rich and special guests explore current issues impacting travel across the state, and the future of Connecticut’s transportation system.
Available episodes
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Nov 8, 2022
Episode 35: Customer Experience Action Plan
Earlier this year, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) initiated the Customer Experience Action Plan as a way to collect customer feedback and input regarding future programs, policies, and investments to improve public transportation in Connecticut.
Tune in to this new episode and join guest host Alicia Gonzalez, CTDOT Commissioner Joseph Giulietti, and CTDOT Transportation Supervising Planner Alicia Leite to hear how the Customer Experience Action Plan will be used to benefit the state.
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Jul 27, 2022
Episode 34: Rich Andreski’s Farewell Address
Join Rich Andreski as he hosts his last episode of the Along the Lines podcast. As he reflects on the past 7 years as Bureau Chief of Public Transportation at the Connecticut Department of Transportation, Rich discusses the highlights, success, accomplishments, and future plans for the CTDOT. While we must bid farewell to our esteemed host, Along the Lines continues with exciting plans for future episodes. Stay tuned!
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Jul 7, 2022
Episode 33: New Look - New Haven Union Station
As a major transportation hub for Connecticut, New Haven Union Station is the epicenter of rail connections to New York City, Hartford, New London, Springfield, Boston, Washington, D.C., and points in between. It also welcomes travelers with magnificent architecture, ornate ceilings, and unique designs.
On this episode, Rich Andreski and his guests will discuss the historic agreement that will redevelop New Haven Union Station and surrounding neighborhoods, all to better serve riders.
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Jun 8, 2022
Episode 32: ParkConneCT Returns - Summer 2022
Summer is right around the corner and the ParkConneCT program has returned for your outdoor adventures! A collaboration with the Connecticut Departments of Transportation (CTDOT) and Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), ParkConneCT will provide safe and reliable transportation to several state parks. Free shuttle connections will be available to access Hammonasset Beach, Silver Sands, Fort Trumbull, Sleeping Giant, Sherwood Island, Osbornedale, and Indian Well State Parks.
On this episode, join special guest host Alicia Gonzalez and her guests to hear how ParkConneCT is providing expanded transportation options to the beautiful state parks of Connecticut this summer.
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May 10, 2022
Episode 31: Reconnecting the City of Hartford
Urban renewal left a legacy of broken neighborhoods in Hartford and other cities. The development of Interstates 91 and 84 allowed for faster transportation into the city but also destroyed neighborhoods and cut the city off from the Connecticut River. Today, programs like iQuilt and the Hartford 400 plan are actively working to reverse this trend and reconnect Hartford’s neighborhoods.
Tune in to Episode 31 with Rich Andreski and his guests to hear how a coalition of organizations work together to reclaim land for new neighborhoods, homes, and businesses in Hartford.
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Apr 26, 2022
Episode 30: Waterbury Line Improvements
Waterbury is a significant hub for Connecticut’s rail network. The Waterbury Line connects people in Waterbury and the Naugatuck Valley to New Haven, New York and all points in-between. The recently upgraded Waterbury Line boasts many features that improve operations and our customers’ experience.
Join Rich Andreski and guests from the Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments and the CTDOT Office of Rails to hear about the exciting improvements made to the Waterbury Line.
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Apr 12, 2022
Episode 29: Transit & Jobs - Getting to Work in CT
Public transportation connects our communities in many ways, especially for job seekers and those entering the workforce. As Connecticut’s economy continues to develop and companies are looking to fill open positions, it is critical that our transportation systems are up-to-date and are aligned to meet our rider’s needs.
Tune in to this episode to hear Rich Andreski and his guests discuss the importance of frequent and reliable public transportation in order to support the workforce of Connecticut.
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Mar 29, 2022
Episode 28: The Future of CT Bus Systems
For many Connecticut residents, the bus plays a vital role in their day-to-day lives. As technology continues to advance and commute patterns shift, our bus systems must also be enhanced and stay up-to-date to meet the rider’s needs. Electric buses, expanded service hours, real-time signage, and express buses are just a few of the improvements riders have seen.
On this episode, join host Rich Andreski and his guests from the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) and CTtransit to hear about the future of CT’s bus systems.
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Mar 15, 2022
Episode 27: Mobility On-Demand
E-scooters and e-bikes are small, “micromobility” vehicles, powered by electricity or manual power. They save money on gas, and help the environment. Microtransit is an innovative on-demand transit service that can bridge the gap between public transportation trips.
On this episode of Along the Lines, join host Rich Andreski and his guests to learn how both micromobility and microtransit are expanding our travel options and the future of transportation right here in Connecticut.
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Mar 1, 2022
Episode 26: Aira- Making Travel More Accessible For Those Who are Blind or Have Low Vision
For those who are blind or have low vision, navigating life is not easy. Even something as simple as taking a bus or train comes with challenges. With the new pilot program Aira, riders can now live stream through their phone’s camera and connect to personal agents who can help them navigate by describing their surroundings.
Tune in to hear more about the CTDOT and the Department of Aging and Disability Services’ (ADS) ongoing effort to create the best public transportation experience for everyone in CT.
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Feb 14, 2022
Episode 25: Real People - Real Stories
We all know green commuting is great for the earth and our state, but most residents don’t think about it as part of their day-to-day life. On this episode, we speak with three guests who DO use green commuting options on a daily basis, and they have some wonderful and positive stories to tell about how it has impacted their lives.
Sit back, listen, and hear some exciting and inspiring stories about real people using public transportation in Connecticut. And, we promise you it will be “engaging”!
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Feb 1, 2022
Episode 24: U-Pass CT Giving College Students Access to Transit
Tens of thousands of Connecticut’s community college and state university students have traveled with the U-Pass CT program. Students at participating schools received the U-Pass CT card, which provides unlimited use of any public transportation. This program has also eliminated another barrier to higher education.
Join host Rich Andreski as he speaks with guests from the Department of Transportation and Capital Community College on the impacts and future growth of the U-Pass CT program.
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Jan 18, 2022
Episode 23: Climate Change and Resiliency
In Connecticut, 38% of all greenhouse gases come from transportation! Our everyday choices of how we travel around the state have a lasting impact on the climate where we live, work and play.
In this episode of Along the Lines, join host Rich Andreski and his guests from the Connecticut Department of Transportation and the Connecticut Institute for Resilience and Climate Adaptation (CIRCA) as they discuss the importance of green commuting options, and how they are dedicated to making our vital public transportation systems more resilient to climate change.
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Dec 22, 2021
Episode 22: Auld Lang Syne -- Year-End Review
2021 was yet another year of uncertainty and change! But more importantly, it was a year of continued adaptation and ultimate growth. Essential workers such as our bus drivers and train conductors, continued to persevere, vaccines became readily available, and public transportation ridership numbers grew.
In this episode of Along the Lines host Rich Andreski reflects on the accomplishments from the past year and welcomes the new year with exciting goals and plans. Here’s to a banner year in 2022!
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Dec 9, 2021
Episode 21: Mobility in Southeastern CT
From Mystic Seaport and Aquarium, to Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods casinos and resorts, and the picturesque beaches of the Long Island Sound, there’s no denying that Southeastern Connecticut is filled with historic and world-class tourist attractions that draw millions of visitors from near and far each year.
Tune in to this episode of Along the Lines as host Rich Andreski speaks with guests from the Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments and the City of New London about the importance of public transportation in the area and how it supports the region’s tourism industry and the growing population.
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Nov 17, 2021
Episode 20: Accessible Transportation- ADA and Paratransit
Finding transportation options can seem overwhelming for our fellow citizens who are restricted by age, mobility issues, or cognitive and physical disabilities. However, with the services of Mobility Management as identified in The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, these individuals are provided assistance in navigating their way to accessible transportation.
In this episode, join host Rich Andreski as he speaks with his three guests who work at the Kennedy Center in disability services and are passionate about helping the people of Connecticut live their best lives.
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Nov 3, 2021
Episode 19: Downtown Crossing
In 1959, the lively neighborhoods of New Haven, CT were disrupted and separated by the development of the Route 34 expressway. After nearly half a century, they will be reconnected through the Downtown Crossing project. This project will make the city safer, more accessible for pedestrians, and restore the urban street environment bringing economic opportunities to New Haven residents.
In this episode, join Rich Andreski with two guests who oversee the Downtown Crossing project to learn more about it’s positive impact on the city.
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Oct 19, 2021
Episode 18: CT Ferry System
Connecticut has the nation’s oldest continuously operating ferry service. Since the 1700s, the Connecticut State Ferry system has moved goods, passengers, bikes, and now cars across the Connecticut River. Today people use the ferries as part of their commute, but they play an important role in tourism and economic development in the region.
Tune in to this new episode of Along the Lines and join Rich Andreski and Master Captain John Marshall to learn more about travel on the Connecticut River.
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Sep 28, 2021
Episode 17: Return to Work Survey
Returning to the Office – many employers and employees are wondering what that looks like and how it will evolve. On this episode of Along the Lines, we’ll review a recent survey commissioned by the CT DOT to gauge the attitudes and intentions of commuters as workplaces start to reopen.
Join series host Rich Andreski as he speaks with two experts Michael Vigeant, CEO of GreatBlue Research, and David Griggs, President, and CEO of the MetroHartford Alliance to discuss the implications of the findings, and get the perspective from the business community.
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Sep 8, 2021
Episode 16: The Future of Cities - Part 2
In this second episode of The Future of Cities series, Rich is joined by two special guests - Brent Toderian, International Consultant and Founder of Toderian UrbanWorks, and Lynn Haig, Director of Planning at the City of Bridgeport. Tune in as they discuss how travel patterns have changed in Connecticut during the pandemic, including the increase in the use of bike and scooter-share programs, and changes happening across other countries.
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Aug 10, 2021
Episode 15: The Future of Cities - Part 1
The pandemic has changed everything: from where we work to how we travel. This, in turn, has changed transportation patterns in our cities. In the first of a two-part discussion, Rich is joined by guests - Brent Toderian, International Consultant and Founder of Toderian UrbanWorks, and Lynn Haig, Director of Planning at the City of Bridgeport. Tune in as they discuss how travel patterns have changed in Connecticut during the pandemic, including the increase in the use of bike and scooter-share programs.
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Jul 20, 2021
Episode 14: Essential Workplaces and the Essential Commute
How did essential employees travel to work during the height of the pandemic? What impact has COVID-19 had on companies planning for a hybrid work schedule? In this episode of Along the Lines, Rich talks with four special guests from a variety of industries on how their commute to work and the workplace were drastically affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Interviews conducted Spring 2021.
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Jul 6, 2021
Episode 13: The Future of Rail Travel in CT - Part 2 - Improvements
There are exciting projects on the horizon! From new rail cars, to faster travel times - the customer experience is sure to get even better. Join the discussion on future rail projects with special guests Rich Jankovich, Rail Administrator at the Office of Rails at CTDOT and Jim Gildea of the Connecticut Commuter Rail Council, for the second part of this two-part series.
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Jun 22, 2021
Episode 12: The Future of Rail Travel in CT - Part 1 - Trends in Ridership
There’s no doubt about it: rail ridership in Connecticut has been affected tremendously by the COVID-19 pandemic. Join the discussion on current and future ridership trends with special guests Rich Jankovich, Rail Administrator at the Office of Rails at CTDOT and Jim Gildea of the Connecticut Commuter Rail Council for the first part of this two-part series.
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Jun 8, 2021
Episode 11: Biking as Essential Transportation
Whether it was for recreation or commuting to work, it was clear that the number of people riding bikes increased in 2020. As biking continues to remain popular, the safety of cyclists remains a top concern. In this episode of Along the Lines, Rich talks to Holly Parker, Owner/ Founder of Less Road Traveled, LLC and Will Wright a Safe Streets advocate and member of People Friendly Stamford to discuss the current and future state of bike transportation and infrastructure in the state.
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May 13, 2021
Episode 10: CTfastrak - 6 Years Later
Did you know that CTfastrak, the first true Bus Rapid Transit system in New England, accounts for nearly 140,000 weekday trips? Join Rich as he talks with Erin Stewart, Mayor of the City of New Britain and George Howell, CEO of both the West Hartford Housing Authority and Trout Brook Realty Advisors, about CTfastrak’s economic impact on the Greater Hartford Region.
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Apr 20, 2021
Episode 9: Climate Change in Connecticut
Climate Change: it affects you, your state, and the Earth. Join Rich in the first of a series of climate conversations, as he talks to Ryan Hanrahan, Meteorologist at NBC Connecticut, and Katie Dykes, Commissioner at the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, about one of the most critical issues facing our state in this episode of Along the Lines.
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Mar 23, 2021
Episode 8: Rail Talk - Funding, Advocacy, and the Future
On this episode, Rich is joined by journalist and long-time rail commuter advocate, Jim Cameron. Their lively discussion includes the future of rail transportation in Connecticut post-pandemic, behind-the-scenes operator relationships, and how to fund our transportation infrastructure moving forward.
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Feb 23, 2021
Episode 7: Keeping Track of Time - The History of Rail in Connecticut
Railroads were instrumental in building the state’s cities and economy. Today, rail travel in Connecticut accounts for over 40 million trips, with New Haven Line (Metro-North) being the busiest commuter rail system in the country. Rich and his guest - Jack Swanberg, retired Lead Trainmaster for New Haven Line (Metro-North) - discuss the long and storied history of rail travel in the state.
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Feb 9, 2021
Episode 6: Economic Development and Public Transportation
Does transportation really impact economic development? In this episode, Rich speaks with the Director of Economic Development from the Town of Berlin, Chris Edge, and Tony Valenti, Partner at the Newport Realty Group to discuss how reliable public transportation and the infrastructure that comes with it is an essential driver for job growth and economic development.
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Jan 26, 2021
Episode 5: Transit: An Economic Driver
Access to reliable public transportation keeps our economy moving. In this episode, Rich speaks with Sean Ghio, Policy Director at the Partnership for Strong Communities in Hartford, and Mark Ojakian, President of the Connecticut State University system to discuss how a reliable public transportation system allows participation within our region’s economy by all, and not just those who own a car.
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Jan 6, 2021
Episode 4: Importance of Rail Safety
Safety: it’s our number one priority at the CTDOT. From, the safety of our customers, to the safety of our employees, our transit systems, and our roadways. But this year challenged us to bring safety to an entirely new level. In this episode, Rich sits down with Kevin Burns from the CTDOT’s Operation Lifesaver program and Detective Robert Hanson from the Amtrak Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Unit to discuss what goes into keeping CTrail customers like you safe.
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Nov 5, 2020
Episode 3: Social Equity Through Public Transportation
Did you know that public transportation plays a role in social equity? Listen in as CTDOT Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Rich Andreski chats with Doug Holcomb from Greater Bridgeport Transit and Tiffany Garcia from the Title VI Office at CTDOT about how Title VI and the Civil Rights Act of 1964 impacts transportation system planning. This episode covers the role transit plays in social justice and what Connecticut is doing to ensure equitable access to the transportation system.
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Oct 7, 2020
Episode 2: Car Not Required – A Discussion with Public Transportation Super-Users
Did you know that you can take public transportation to go camping? Yep – It’s possible. Listen in as CTDOT Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Rich Andreski chats with two public transportation super users, Nefari Hassan and Kai Addae as they discuss how they navigate across the state without access to a car. The discussion covers how they live their lives using public transportation, and the importance it plays on a daily basis.
Please note: Since the taping of this episode, fare collection on all bus routes in Connecticut has resumed.
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Aug 10, 2020
Episode 1: Transportation in the COVID-19 Era
Is Public Transportation Dead? That is the question that CTDOT Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Rich Andreski and his guests Garrett Eucalitto, Deputy Commissioner at CTDOT and Melissa Kaplan-Macey, Vice President, State Programs & Connecticut Director for Regional Plan Association address in this inaugural episode of Along the Lines. Their discussion covers what’s trending for public transportation in the COVID-19 era and what it means to transit riders in the region.
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